Are you ready for a taste of the Caribbean? This Jamaican cornmeal pudding recipe is a delicious and comforting dessert, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a unique flavor profile that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Jamaica. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and satisfying treat that's far better than anything store-bought.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal (fine grind is best)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional, but adds a lovely texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cornmeal, water, milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps. This is crucial for a smooth pudding.
Cooking the Pudding:
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Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and burning. This is important; continuous stirring is key to the success of this recipe.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, and continue stirring frequently. The mixture will start to thicken. This process takes about 15-20 minutes. Patience is key here!
Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the raisins (if using) and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter.
Serving:
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Pour the pudding into individual ramekins or a single large baking dish. Let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to allow it to set. This chilling step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
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Serve chilled. You can garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cornmeal Pudding:
- Fine Grind Cornmeal: Using finely ground cornmeal results in a smoother, creamier pudding.
- Don't Rush the Cooking: Low and slow is the key here. Rushing the cooking process can result in a lumpy pudding.
- Taste and Adjust: Feel free to adjust the spices and sugar to your liking.
- Storage: Leftover pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Coconut Milk: Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Rum: For adults, add a tablespoon or two of spiced rum to the pudding after removing it from the heat (optional).
- Citrus Zest: A little orange or lemon zest adds a bright and refreshing flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Fat: 8-10g
This Jamaican cornmeal pudding is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for a quick dessert or a delightful addition to your next family gathering. It's a wholesome treat that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this taste of Jamaica!